ICESCO and SASO Discuss Quality Cooperation in Rabat

The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) held a high-level meeting in Rabat on February 8, 2025, to explore collaborative opportunities in the field of quality. The meeting was led by ICESCO Director General Dr. Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik and SASO Governor Dr. Saad bin Othman Alkasabi, who also serves as Vice Chairman of SASO’s Board of Directors.

Context and Background

This engagement underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to raising quality standards across the Islamic world, aligning with Vision 2030’s objective of enhancing institutional performance and competitiveness. ICESCO, as a specialized organization focusing on education, science, and culture, and SASO, as the Kingdom’s national standards body, are natural partners in promoting quality as a foundational element for sustainable development.

Key Details

During the meeting, both sides discussed strategies to integrate quality as a core component for improving performance in various sectors. They agreed to collaborate on implementing revised quality standards established by relevant Islamic and international authorities. Dr. Alkasabi commended ICESCO’s contributions in advancing expertise within the Islamic world, highlighting the mutual benefits of this partnership.

Implications and Impact

This cooperation is expected to enhance quality infrastructure in ICESCO member states, facilitating trade, improving public services, and fostering innovation. By aligning with international benchmarks, the initiative will strengthen the Islamic world’s integration into global value chains and support economic diversification efforts across the region.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The partnership between ICESCO and SASO directly supports Vision 2030’s goal of building a vibrant society and thriving economy through excellence in performance and institutional quality. By leading collaborative efforts to raise standards, Saudi Arabia reinforces its role as a global hub for quality assurance and a driver of progress in the Islamic world.

20 Questions

Q1. What was the purpose of the meeting between ICESCO and SASO?

A1. The meeting aimed to explore opportunities for collaboration in quality, focusing on integrating quality as a foundational element to improve performance across various sectors.

Q2. Who led the meeting on behalf of ICESCO?

A2. ICESCO Director General Dr. Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik led the meeting, representing the organization in the discussions with SASO.

Q3. Who represented SASO at the meeting?

A3. SASO Governor Dr. Saad bin Othman Alkasabi, who also serves as Vice Chairman of SASO’s Board of Directors, represented the organization.

Q4. Where did the meeting take place?

A4. The meeting was held in Rabat, the capital of Morocco, on February 8, 2025.

Q5. What key agreement was reached during the meeting?

A5. The two sides agreed to collaborate on implementing revised quality standards established by relevant Islamic and international authorities.

Q6. How does this partnership align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?

A6. It supports Vision 2030’s objectives of enhancing institutional performance and competitiveness, contributing to a vibrant society and thriving economy.

Q7. What is ICESCO’s role in the Islamic world?

A7. ICESCO focuses on education, science, and culture, aiming to promote cooperation and development among Islamic countries in these fields.

Q8. What is SASO’s primary function?

A8. SASO is the Saudi national standards body responsible for setting and enforcing standards in metrology, quality, and standardization.

Q9. Why is quality considered a foundational element?

A9. Quality improves efficiency, safety, and competitiveness, serving as a basis for sustainable development and better public services.

Q10. How will the cooperation benefit ICESCO member states?

A10. It will enhance quality infrastructure, facilitating trade, improving public services, and fostering innovation across member states.

Q11. What did Dr. Alkasabi commend about ICESCO?

A11. He commended ICESCO’s contributions in advancing its areas of expertise within the Islamic world, acknowledging its positive impact.

Q12. Are the quality standards aligned with international benchmarks?

A12. Yes, the revised standards are established by relevant Islamic and international authorities, ensuring global compatibility.

Q13. What sectors might be affected by improved quality standards?

A13. Sectors such as manufacturing, education, healthcare, and public services could benefit from better quality standards.

Q14. How does this meeting strengthen Saudi Arabia’s global role?

A14. It showcases Saudi leadership in quality assurance and its commitment to collaborative development in the Islamic world.

Q15. Was this meeting publicly announced?

A15. Yes, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported the meeting on February 8, 2025, confirming the details.

Q16. What is the significance of holding the meeting in Rabat?

A16. Rabat hosts ICESCO’s headquarters, making it a practical location for bilateral discussions with visiting Saudi officials.

Q17. Does SASO have prior collaborations with international organizations?

A17. Yes, SASO regularly works with global standards bodies to harmonize Saudi standards with international norms.

Q18. Will the cooperation involve training or capacity building?

A18. While not specified, such collaborations typically include technical assistance and knowledge sharing to build capacity in member states.

Q19. How does quality improvement support economic diversification?

A19. Higher quality standards boost export competitiveness, attract investment, and enable new industries, key to economic diversification.

Q20. What is the next step after this meeting?

A20. The parties will likely develop a detailed action plan, including timelines and milestones, to implement the agreed collaboration on quality standards.

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